Dr. Keith Sterner, of Sterner Veterinary Clinic PC in Ionia, Mich., chaired the AABP VCPR Task Force that created the guidelines. "As regulatory and consumer concerns over drug use in cattle makes the news, more direct veterinary involvement with the dairy farm, ranch or feedlot is needed," Sterner said. "AABP convened a task force to help better spell out just what constituted a VCPR. The VCPR is the very foundation on which all parties concerned can use to be assured of responsible production practices being employed on farming operations."

AABP said the six principles underpinning the AABP VCPR guidelines are:

1. Maintain written agreements for working relationships;

2. Have a veterinarian of record;

3. Clarify any and all relationships with consultants and other veterinarians;

4. Provide written protocols;

5. Ensure written or electronic treatment records are maintained, and

6. Provide drugs or prescriptions for specific time frames and for specific protocols.

The VCPR is a mechanism that when in place and adhered to by all parties, assures responsible drug use and that protocols are in place and regularly reviewed on the livestock operation.

"The VCPR guidelines are a measured and carefully reasoned mechanism that veterinarians can use to assure that lines of communication and records are in place between them and their clients for responsible drug use," Sterner added.

"At the same time, these guidelines will help assure the public that there are excellent, responsible and documented procedures being employed on farming operations," he said. "This will help to ensure a positive image for both the dairy and beef industries as well as the veterinary profession."